South Suffolk MP says prorogation of Parliament strengthens chance of 'compromise deal' between UK and EU

The MP for South Suffolk believes the upcoming prorogation of Parliament will strengthen the possibility of the UK achieving a ‘last minute’ compromise deal with the European Union.

The Government has come under fire, following the announcement by Prime Minister Boris Johnson that a five-week suspension of Parliament would take place in September and October.

Mr Johnson claimed MPs would still have time to debate Brexit, but critics say the suspension is an undemocratic attempt to avoid scrutiny and force Britain to leave the EU without a deal on October 31.

South Suffolk MP James Cartlidge. (15933855)

In response to concerns from South Suffolk residents, James Cartlidge stated while he had many reservations about prorogation, he felt the move had simplified the position “that was always the reality before us”, that a new compromise deal would have to be reached and brought before MPs.

“I’ve no doubt that most of my constituents would expect us to be sitting through these tumultuous times,” he said. “The point is that due to the conference recess – which I repeat is a perfectly standard event, like the Queen’s Speech – we would not have been sitting for much of the weeks ahead anyway.

“Most importantly, far from proroguing Parliament beyond Brexit and forcing ‘no deal’, it is now guaranteed that Parliament will debate and vote on whatever new deal emerges from the EU Council on October 17.

“As it happens, I have always believed that a deal would be done at the last minute and that possibility has arguably been strengthened rather than undermined by prorogation.

“To be clear, I share many of the concerns felt about no deal, which guarantees the end of free trade between us and our largest trading partner, an outcome that cannot be consequence free.

“But the fact so much ‘anti no deal’ activity could derail Brexit altogether makes it unrealistic not to expect the Government to seek tools to reduce the likelihood of the referendum being overturned.”

“I remain of the view I have held since the referendum that the only sustainable way ahead is to honour the democratic vote and leave, whilst doing so on a sensible basis, departing gradually via a transition and negotiated settlement to minimise disruption and paving the way for a prosperous future with certainty restored.

“In a starkly divided country beset by political crisis, unable to move on, compromise is the only way forward that offers a chance for us to both resolve the impasse and reunite.”